Can You Be Arrested for Debt? Plus 3 More Frequently Asked Questions

According to experts, consumer debt in the United States rose to $4.19 trillion in 2019. You may be stuck with several types of debt such as credit cards, loans, medical bills, among others. Unexpected circumstances like losing your job can put you in a tough spot to keep paying these debts.

Does this sound familiar? If so, debt collectors may be knocking on your door sooner rather than later. Now you may be asking yourself “Can you be arrested for debt?”

It may seem scary, but learning as much as you can about debt collection is the first step to protect yourself. Don’t know where to start? Here are the top debt collection FAQs you may be asking yourself.

1. Can You Be Arrested for Debt?

No, you can’t be arrested for debt. However, debt collectors can sue you for payment. You may think it’s easier to ignore the lawsuit, but it can end up costing you a lot more.

Most debt collectors file legal actions without a lot of supporting documentation. If you don’t take action, your case may result in a default judgment ordering you to pay more than what you owe.

2. What Behavior Can’t Debt Collectors Engage In?

The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) protects all consumers from debt collector bad practices. This law bans debt collectors from engaging in harassing and threatening behavior such as threats of violence or arrests.

Under this legislation, debt collectors can’t lie about the amount you owe, charge interest or fees, among other inappropriate behavior. If you’re being subject to this type or similar behavior, you should get help dealing with debt collectors by considering consolidating your debt.

3. When Can Debt Collectors Contact You?

Under the FDCPA, debt collectors can only contact debtors during reasonable hours unless you agree to other times. Examples of unreasonable times are before 8 AM and after 9 PM. Keep in mind the FDCPA regulation and rules don’t apply to creditor’s debt collection departments.

4. Is There a Way to Stop a Debt Collector From Contacting You?

Believe it or not, you can stop debt collectors from contacting you. It’s as easy as sending them a letter asking them to stop and stating that you don’t or owe a certain amount of debt. In your letter, you should ask them to verify your debt.

You must send this document within 30 days of receiving the communication from the collector. The debt collector can keep contacting you if they provide evidence of your debt such as a copy of your bill.

So You Learned the Top Debt Collection FAQs, Now What?

Learning the answer to the question “Can you be arrested for debt?” and other debt collection FAQs is the best way to protect yourself from debt collectors. If you’re being sued by a debt collector, you should consider consulting an attorney.

Believe it or not, some legal experts specialize in debt collection legal actions. While you may not be arrested for your debt, it’s important to comply with any court orders. Before taking any action, schedule an initial consultation with an experienced lawyer to obtain the best outcome in your debt collection case.

Did you find this article useful? Keep checking the rest of our site for more helpful tips and articles to start managing your finances today.